Free Backyard Astronomy Tools, Charts and Checklists
Practical backyard astronomy references: numbers you can check before you buy, plan or start a project.
Telescope Aperture and Magnification Chart- Telescope Aperture and Magnification ChartReference chart with a printable version you can embed or pin up.
- Which Telescope or Stargazing Gear Is Right for You?Answer three quick questions and get a matched buying guide.
- Stargazing Night ChecklistTick-off checklist that remembers your progress.
- Refractor vs Reflector TelescopeRefractor and reflector telescopes compared on aperture per dollar, maintenance, image quality, portability and targets.
- Telescope vs Binoculars for StargazingAstronomy binoculars and telescopes compared on field of view, detail, ease of use, cost and portability.
- Glossary of backyard astronomy terms15 plain-English definitions.
How we build these references: our research process.